The Atlanta Braves are looking to bounce back from an injury-riddled 2024 season by strengthening their depth. Despite dealing with injuries, the Braves’ bullpen still posted a strong 3.32 ERA, ranking third in MLB, with a 3.41 FIP placing them second overall.
Adding depth is always a smart move, especially when experienced veterans can be signed on minor-league deals. That’s exactly what Atlanta has done. According to Justin Toscano of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Braves have invited three new players to spring training as non-roster additions: Chad Kuhl, Jake Diekman, and Dylan Covey. Kuhl is a starting pitcher, while Diekman and Covey are bullpen options, with Diekman being the only left-hander.
FanGraphs’ Roster Resource projects Atlanta to begin the season with four lefties in their bullpen, which could provide Diekman with more opportunities if he performs well.
Now 38, Diekman has plenty of MLB experience, including a standout 2020 season with the Oakland A’s, where he posted a 0.42 ERA in 21.1 innings after adjusting his slider grip. He has since bounced around multiple teams, struggling with consistency. In 2024, he pitched 32 innings for the New York Mets, recording a 5.63 ERA, though his slider/sweeper remained effective, holding opponents to a .107 batting average.
Despite maintaining above-average velocity (94.6 mph fastball), his biggest issue last season was control, as his walk rate spiked to 16.6%, one of the worst in the league. If he can improve his command, Diekman could become a valuable bullpen piece for Atlanta. How he performs in spring training will determine if this under-the-radar signing pays off for the Braves.
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